Federal Judge Charged with 'Super Drunk' OWI, Formal Complaint Filed

Thomas Ludington, a federal judge in Michigan, faces criminal charges after a drunk driving incident near his vacation home last fall.

Feb. 25, 2026 at 4:34pm

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A federal judge in Michigan, Thomas Ludington, was arrested in October 2025 for operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) with a blood-alcohol level over 0.17%, considered 'super drunk' under state law. The arrest was not made public until a news report in late January 2026. A formal complaint has now been filed against Ludington with the Sixth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, raising questions about how the incident was kept quiet and whether Ludington should face disciplinary action.

Why it matters

The case raises concerns about accountability for federal judges, who are appointed for life and can only be impeached by Congress. The complaint alleges Ludington's actions meet the grounds for discipline, including potential retirement, and questions whether taxpayers should be covering his paid leave during the legal proceedings.

The details

On October 3, 2025, Ludington allegedly struck two traffic signs and crashed his vehicle near his vacation home outside of Petoskey, Michigan. Police video shows Ludington had difficulty following instructions, failed sobriety tests, and registered a blood-alcohol level of 0.27% - more than three times the legal limit. He was charged with OWI and 'super drunk' OWI, which carry potential jail time and fines.

  • On October 3, 2025, Ludington was arrested near his vacation home.
  • In late January 2026, Ludington's arrest was first reported by The Detroit News.
  • On February 25, 2026, a formal complaint was filed against Ludington with the Sixth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

The players

Thomas Ludington

A federal judge in Bay City, Michigan, who was appointed in 2006 by former President George W. Bush.

Gabe Roth

The executive director of Fix the Court, a nonprofit organization advocating for more accountability within the federal court system.

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What they’re saying

“That is a prudent decision in our view, but unfortunately, the statement does not indicate whether Ludington sought treatment or undertook any other measures to try to instill confidence in his work product while the OWI case hung over his head. The statement also means taxpayers are on the hook for some $50,000 in paid leave, if not more.”

— Gabe Roth, Executive Director, Fix the Court

What’s next

Ludington is next due in court on April 6 for a status conference on the criminal charges.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for greater accountability and transparency for federal judges, who are appointed for life and can only be impeached by Congress. The complaint alleges Ludington's actions warrant disciplinary action, raising questions about how such incidents are handled within the judicial system.